Update: Tornado with quarter-sized hail possible in Clay and Ray counties Thursday

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An updated tornado warning was released by the National Weather Service on Thursday at 9:19 p.m. in effect until 9:45 p.m. for Clay and Ray counties.

Quarter-sized hail (1 inch) is predicted with the incoming storm.

"At 9:19 p.m., a severe squall line capable of producing both tornadoes and extensive straight line wind damage was located over Excelsior Springs, moving east at 40 mph," explains the NWS. "Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed. Damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur. Tree damage is likely."

Locations impacted by the warning include Excelsior Springs, Lawson, Crystal Lakes, Excelsior Estates, Woods Heights and Homestead.

Recommended action: Seek shelter

The NWS comments, "Take cover now! Move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows. If you are outdoors, in a mobile home, or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris."

This warning is in effect until 9:45 p.m.

Ways to protect yourself during a tornado

According to the NWS, rapid action is key to staying safe during a tornado. Remain updated about tornado watches and warnings by following local news or a NOAA Weather Radio.

• If you are indoors: During a tornado warning, go to your basement, safe room, or an interior room without windows. If time allows, bring your pets.
• If you are at your workplace or school: Follow your tornado drill and proceed to your tornado shelter location quickly and calmly. Stay away from windows and do not go to large open rooms such as cafeterias, gymnasiums, or auditoriums.
• If you are outside: In case of an approaching tornado, quickly seek shelter inside a safe building. Keep in mind that sheds, storage facilities, mobile homes, and tents are not safe options.
• If you are in a vehicle: Remaining inside a vehicle during a tornado is unsafe. The best plan of action is to drive to the nearest shelter. If you are unable to reach a safe shelter, either crouch down in your car and protect your head, or abandon the vehicle and seek shelter in a low-lying area such as a ditch or ravine.

Have you put together an emergency kit for tornado scenarios?

The Federal Emergency Management Agency recommends keeping the following items in a basic disaster supplies kit:

• Water, one gallon per person for at least three days
• Food, at least a three-day supply
• Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
• Flashlight
• First-aid kit
• Whistle
• Dust mask to filter contaminated air
• Plastic sheeting and duct tape, for shelter purposes
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties
• Manual can opener for food
• Local maps

Source: The National Weather Service

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This story was originally published April 23, 2026 at 8:58 PM.